Envisioning Possibilities
Health
Fear of giving a speech can affect your health.
Picture this: you’re standing in front of a sea of expectant faces, your palms sweating, knees knocking, and your mind going blank faster than a dropped call. Yes, it’s the dreaded speech-giving moment, where even the most eloquent among us can become a stumbling mess.
As a long-time toastmaster, I have found a few helpful hints to improve speaker health.
A grand opening line is a good start. The celebrated speaker, Patricia Fripp, suggests a few opening lines for your next business presentation.
The purpose of this meeting is to . . .
Thank you for the opportunity to . . .
You will remember at our last meeting . . .
Thank you for your support with . . .
We have an amazing opportunity to . . .
There will never be a more perfect time to . .
Congratulations . . .
Last but not least – I need to offer a plug for Toastmasters.
Sign on to Toastmasters.org and “find a club”. A few have remained online after COVID-19. Even though you don’t get that in-person experience, you will get a speaking experience.
My personal experience in Toastmasters launched a new career for me in 2000. After being a school teacher, a presenter for my company, and a business owner required to give presentations to get the work, I didn’t know what I was missing. I could have been so much more. In addition, I’ve won speech contests and gained new clients.
If you would like to join me at Lehigh Valley Toastmasters for a new experience, we meet on the 2nd and 4th Wed. from 7-9. www.LVToastmasters.org
.
Why Every Designer Should Practice Their Speech
In design, presentation is persuasion. When you practice speaking as much as sketching, you build trust, authority, and excitement around your ideas. A polished pitch can make the difference between a “maybe” and a “let’s do it.” Remember your voice is part of your professional toolkit. Use it well, and let it sell your vision as powerfully as your designs do.
NETWORKING …. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER
Networking is more about follow-up than first impressions.
Sound as Good as You Look
Trade shows can showcase your talent and brand but shouldn’t cost you your voice.
Progress
Progress Is Not Always Linear (and That’s Okay)
Goals
You can not have what you are not willing to becone.
Priceless
Wishing everyone a joyful Easter and a meaningful Passover. All a bit belated
Commitment
Progress isn’t perfection. It’s presence
Energy Management
You don’t need more hours—you need better fuel.
Resonance
Image created by Google AI. Influence isn’t volume—it’s the resonance In a world that often equates volume with impact, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that the loudest voice wins. But true influence isn't about decibels; it's about resonance....